Extracurricular Activities:Unfortunately, I was a remote student and worked full time while I was enrolled. I would have liked to do some additional activities, but I simply did not have the time.
What career or personal update would you like to give to your fellow Florida Tech Panthers alumni?
In my current role, I function as the Senior Director of Engineering at Blue Ridge Power. This role builds upon my existing career progression, by adding renewable energy as a new area of endeavor, outside of the legacy power systems I have historically built and tested. I am very excited to venture into this new market, bringing what I have learned over the years and building upon those experiences in hopes to improve our global footprint with a different energy source. I do understand it will be a process, as most things are, but I hope to do my small part to help push us forward.
How did your time at Florida Tech help get you to where you are today?
My time at Florida Tech was instrumental in where I am today. In understanding the core principles of business, it has allowed me to further develop the overlapping connections between the technical and business departments within organizations. In doing so, I am better equipped to manage both personnel and organizational expectations by connecting the finer details together, so the goals are both well defined and in sync.
What is your favorite Florida Tech memory?
My favorite Florida Tech memory occurred during graduation. Seeing my wife and daughter there, who had individually sacrificed, for me to reach that point meant the world to me. They served as both inspiration and the reason why I was sitting where I was at that time. Additionally, the fellow graduate I sat next to during the ceremony was absolutely hilarious, which made the proceedings extremely fun. It is truly a day I will not forget.
Was there a mentor or professor who had a big impact on you personally and/or professionally?
At an earlier point in my career, an organizational leader brought to my attention, my own lack of business knowledge. This individual made me question the "why" of what I was currently focusing on in my career. This discussion centered around the question, "Are you aware of your own true capabilities, or are you simply following the normal expectations of an engineer's career path?" Honestly, I never thought about it before, as I was solely focused on the daily activities of performing well on my projects. This one question literally changed my mentality regarding my career path choices.
Please share any advice you have for current Florida Tech students.
My advice would be to not be afraid to diversify your skillsets. One should understand, a degree in one field does not mean you cannot have skills and competency in a different one. It is important to understand connection points between industry, roles, project aspects, etc. so you are better prepared to work with a litany of professionals wherever you may end up. Do not assume, what you know now, will be enough knowledge moving forward.
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